USTA/Midwest Section

2012 USTA/Midwest Section League Regulations A supplement to the 2012 USTA League Regulations www.midwest.usta.com/leagues

2012 Midwest District, State, & Section USTA League Championship Dates Event Dates Location District Adult/Senior USTA League Championships Illinois Adult/Senior USTA League Championships Michigan Adult/Senior USTA League Championships Ohio Adult/Senior USTA League Championships Wisconsin Adult/Senior State Championships Indiana Adult/Senior State Championships Midwest Adult USTA League Championships Midwest Senior USTA League Championships Wisconsin Mixed Doubles State Championships Michigan Mixed Doubles State Championships Illinois Mixed Doubles State Championships Indiana Mixed Doubles State Championships Ohio Mixed Doubles State Championships Midwest Mixed Doubles Section Championships Midwest Super Seniors USTA League Championships Midwest Combo Doubles and Senior Mixed Doubles Section Championships August 3-5 August 10-12 August 10-12 August 10-12 August 10-12 August 11-12 August 17-19 August 24-26 September 8-9 September 2012 September 2012 September 2012 September 2012 September 22-23 TBD March 8-10, 2013 Check with Local District Northern Illinois- Host District Western Michigan- Host District Northwestern Ohio- Host District Wisconsin- Host District Central Indiana- Host District Indianapolis, IN Fort Wayne, IN Wisconsin- Host District Northeast Michigan- Host District Chicago- Host District Northern Indiana- Host District Northeast Ohio- Host District Fort Wayne, IN Indianapolis, IN Fort Wayne, IN

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT FOR USTA LEAGUE RULES DEFERRED FROM USTA TO SECTIONS Effective through the 2012 Championship Year 2012 Championship Year new rules in red and underlined All rules below apply to all divisions (Adult, Senior, Super Senior, Mixed Doubles, Senior Mixed Doubles, and Combo Doubles) Table of Contents: 1.0 General... 4 2.0 USTA League Regulations... 6 3.0 Grievance Procedures... 9 4.0 Additional Rules and Regulations Applicable to USTA Leagues in the USTA/Midwest Section.. 9 Articles of Agreement for USTA/Midwest Section Combo Double Leagues... 11 5.0 Combo Doubles League Regulations... 11 5.0 Local League... 11 6.0 League Regulations... 13 6.02 Progression... 15 6.03 Area and State Championships... 18 Articles of Agreement for USTA/Midwest Section Senior Mixed Doubles League... 22 1 Age... 22 2 NTRP Levels... 22 3 Team Size... 23 4 Team Match Format... 23 5 Section Championships... 23 6 General... 24 7 USTA League Section Grievance Committee... 24 8 Eligibility... 24 9 Competition Format... 25 Articles of Agreement for USTA/Midwest Section Tri-Level Division... 26 1 General... 26 2 Local League Season... 26 3 Team... 26 4 Progression... 26 Articles of Agreement for USTA/Midwest Section USTA League State Championships... 28 1 Purpose... 28 2 Rotation Order... 28 3 Requirements... 28 4 Change in Rotation... 29 USTA/MIDWEST SECTION 1310 East 96th Street, Suite #100 Indianapolis, Indiana 46240

Section 1.0 GENERAL 1.04B(5) A Section, District, and/or Local USTA League Coordinator, who participates in the USTA League Program may not be a captain of any team. 1.04C(1)a Corrections to the original or amended roster based on administrative error may be authorized by the District USTA League Coordinator without forfeiture of said match. 1.04C(2) USTA League match scores must be reported by either team within 48 hours of the completion of the match. The District League Coordinator will run the match reports daily. The consequences for failure to report match scores are as follows: a) A written warning issued to both teams for the first offense; b) All subsequent violations will result in the individual team match not counting toward league standings, however match results will still be used to generate player ratings. 1.04D(3)a The Section shall request a waiver from USTA to authorize early start leagues, however, the local league may not begin prior to September 1. 1.04D(3)b For early start leagues, a player who receives a year-end rating at a higher NTRP level may complete the local early start league, however, the player is not exempt from dynamic NTRP Disqualification (DQ) procedures at the lower NTRP level if applicable. The player will not be eligible for playoffs at the lower NTRP level. This player must then play at their new year-end NTRP level. 1.04D(4)a Local leagues may determine the dates for their season. Local leagues must have begun play for Adult/Senior by July 1, Mixed Doubles by July 15, and Super Senior by 4

August 15. Players in Combo Doubles and Senior Mixed Doubles must be registered on a team by December 15, except as noted specifically in other Sections of the Articles of Agreement. 1.04D(4)b Local League Season: The local league season shall begin with the local league roster deadline and end on a date determined by the local league. During the local league season, no more than two regularly scheduled matches may be played in a seven-day period for the following Divisions: Adult, Senior, Mixed Doubles and Super Senior. 1.04D(4)c Length of Local League Season: A local league season must be scheduled for a minimum of three weeks. Three weeks is defined as 21 days from the first match to the last match. Waivers may be granted by the USTA/Midwest Section Adult League Competition Regulatory Committee for extenuating circumstances. 1.04D(4)d USTA League registration must be closed no later than two weeks prior to the end of the local league season in each District. 1.04D(6)a In both the Adult and Senior divisions, there is no limit on the number of players on a team. In all leagues, except in two-team leagues, a District may determine the percentage of players on the roster that are at a specific NTRP level. 1.04E(1) Residents of foreign countries are invited to participate in the league program; however, all matches shall be played in the USA. 1.04F(1)d(1) During the local league season, if the NTRP Grievance Committee deems a player ineligible, all matches played shall be considered losses. 5

1.04F(1)d(2) During District, State and Section Championship play, players declared ineligible by the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League NTRP Grievance Committee will not be allowed to advance with their team, but their match results will stand as played. 1.04G(2)e Players who qualify to advance to Championships on more than one team may be required by their Section to choose which team they will represent. a) A player, who qualifies for championship level competition within a division on two or more different NTRP levels, may play on any or all of these teams but there will be no accommodation in the championship schedule. b) A player who qualifies on two or more teams within a division at the same NTRP level competition at the same championship will be eligible only for one team and that choice must be reported in writing to the championship director by the deadline set by each District Championship Committee and by 12:00 (noon) local time on the Monday preceding the State and Section Championship. A player representing two local leagues in the same District who fails to declare will automatically be assigned to the first team on which the player registered. A player representing two different Districts, who fails to declare, will automatically be assigned to the player s home District. A player must remain with his or her chosen team for all championship play up to and including the National Championships, or their equivalent. After elimination of the chosen team, a player may not advance with another team at the same NTRP level. Section 2.0 USTA LEAGUE REGULATIONS 2.01C(5)a In the event of a no show, a rostered player may be substituted in the position of a missing player after the exchange of lineups and before the set default time in local competition. In the event of a no show, the team match may not begin until all positions comply with rule 2.03K. In the 6

event that two players from different doubles teams are no shows, that team may combine the remaining two players at the higher of the doubles positions. No additional changes can be made to the lineup. 2.02A(2) Local playoffs and Area/District League Championships must end by the Sunday before the State Championships. 2.02B Local league champions may progress through an Area/ District Championship and a State Championship. 2.03A(2)a A player is eligible to progress to local flight-playoff-level competition if the player has played on the same team in at least two (2) matches during its local league season. A maximum of one default received by the player during local league competition shall count for advancing. A retired match shall count toward advancing for all players involved. 2.03C All matches at the State and Section Championships shall be the best of two sets, with regular scoring and a Set Tie- Break (using the Coman Tie-break Procedure) at six all in each set. In the event of split sets, a Match Tie-Break (using the Coman Tie-break Procedure) shall be played in lieu of a third set with no rest period or coaching allowed. (The tiebreak shall be scored as one set and one game for tie-break procedures). At the State or Section Championships level, if an emergency or other condition dictates, the tournament referee may authorize the use of other USTA-approved scoring methods in order to complete play on schedule. 2.03C(1) Other USTA-approved scoring methods may be used for play at Area/District Championships. 2.03D A round robin format must be used for the Section and State Championships. A round robin format is recommended to be used for Area/District Championships. 7

2.03H(5) Coin toss by head referee. 2.03K(1) A team defaulting an entire match at any championship level (District, State and Section) will result in its team members being ineligible to compete in any championship competition within the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League program in the next championship year. All individual matches won by the defaulting team before the forfeit of the entire team match will be reversed and awarded to the opposing team. 2.04D(1)a Each USTA/Midwest Section District shall appoint a USTA League Committee consisting of, but not limited to, the District USTA League Coordinator as a non-voting member, an assigned Committee Chairman, a current USTA League player, and another member. The names of committee members must be submitted to the Section USTA League Coordinator for approval before the start of local league play. 2.04D(1)b Names of District League NTRP Review committee members must be submitted to the Section League Coordinator before the start of local league play. 2.04E(1) In the event of an NTRP disqualification for that particular level of play, all matches played at the disqualified level or below and any subsequent match played by the player shall be considered losses and those matches shall be considered wins for the opposing player or doubles team. 2.04E(2)a During District, State, and Section Championships, the computer ratings will be run after each round of play and those players who meet the NTRP disqualification criteria will be disqualified. All matches shall be considered losses and those matches shall be considered wins for the opposing player or doubles team. 2.06A National Championship Super Senior rostered teams may move up one level as a team or must disperse to form new 8

teams. The new Super Senior teams may have no more than four (4) players who were on the final roster at the conclusion of the local league on any team or combination of teams that advanced to the Super Senior National Championship for the following league year. This applies to any player who participated in any match for that team during the championship year, including defaults received. Section 3.0 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES 3.01A(1), 3.01B(1) Names of District League Grievance and Grievance Appeal committee members must be submitted to the Section League Coordinator before the start of local league play. Section 4.0 ADDITIONAL RULES AND REGULATION APPLICABLE TO USTA LEAGUES IN THE USTA/MIDWEST SECTION All rules below apply to all divisions: Adult, Senior, Super Senior, Mixed Doubles, Senior Mixed Doubles, and Combo Doubles. 4.02 The USTA/Midwest Section will have a USTA League NTRP Grievance Committee composed of three members from the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Committee which are appointed by the Section USTA League Committee Chair. If the grievance is due to NTRP Grievance (3.02B), then the committee shall be composed of the USTA League Committee Chair from the District where the grievance originated and two other members of the Section League Committee appointed by the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Chair. A District League Coordinator may not serve as the chair of the District USTA League Committee. 4.03 Tournament staff, including the Local, District and Section Coordinators, at Local Playoff, District, State and Section Championships, including, but not limited to, site directors, USTA Section and District staff, referees and umpires, 9

may not play in championships in which they are serving in an official capacity. 4.04 Wild card teams for the USTA Midwest Section State and Section Championships shall be determined by the highest winning individual match percentage of the second place District team within that specific NTRP level. 4.05 Interpretation of USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Standing Orders is within the authority of the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Coordinator. 10

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT FOR USTA/MIDWEST SECTION COMBO DOUBLES LEAGUE Section 5.0 COMBO DOUBLES LEAGUE REGULATIONS Combo Doubles League Regulations: All USTA League Tennis and USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Standing Orders in 1.00 General, 2.00 USTA League Regulations, 3.0 Grievance Procedures, and 5.0 USTA League Standing Orders Regulations for Combo Doubles shall apply. 5.0 LOCAL LEAGUE 5.04D(1) Definition A local league shall consist of a minimum of two teams in a specified geographical area that applies specific local league regulations and consists of NTRP level(s) with a minimum of two or more teams per level. A local league may choose to divide any or all NTRP levels into flights. Where flights are used, a playoff structure may be established to determine a champion for each NTRP level; (See 2.01C-Competition Format) In a specified geographical area which otherwise would not be able to have a league at a specific level, the Section may waive that requirement. 5.04D(6) Team A team shall consist of a minimum of six players of the same gender eligible to compete at a specific level of competition. There is no limit on the number of players on a team. There is no limit on the number of players on the roster that are at a specific NTRP level. 5.04E(3) Age Each player shall have reached the age of eighteen prior to or during the calendar year in which such player plays in his or her first local league match. 5.04F(1) Entry A player without a computer rating must self-rate to enter the program. A player who has a current NTRP computer rating must use his or her current NTRP rating on the day 11

of registration to enter the program (see Valid Computer Rating Chart in USTA League Regulations.) Any player disqualified from the adult or senior division may not play at the disqualified NTRP level of play in the USTA League Combo Doubles division (and any lower level of play) for the remainder of the league year and for up to three years (two years for age 60 and over) unless a new NTRP computer rating is generated. A disqualified player becomes a benchmark. [See 2.05B and 2.05C(1)] In combined leagues, the disqualified player must play with a partner that does not surpass the level entered. A player may not be disqualified based on match results from the Combo Doubles division. Combo Doubles Leagues will not be part of generating a player s year-end rating. 5.04G Player Participation 5.04G(2)a A player may play on one team in a NTRP level within a division (USTA League Adult, Senior, Mixed Doubles, Super Seniors and Combo Doubles) in the same local league during the same season. In local leagues where NTRP levels are divided into flights, players may not play in more than one flight. 5.04G(2)c A Section may authorize participation in more than one NTRP level within a division in the same local league during the same season. 5.04G(2)d A player may play on more than one team within a division in the same season provided it is in separate local leagues. The Section has the authority to accept or deny participation. 5.04G(2)e Players who qualify to advance to championships on more than one team may be required by their Section to choose which team they will represent. 12

a.) A player, who qualifies for championship level competition within a division on two or more different NTRP levels, may play on any or all of these teams but there will be no accommodation in the championship schedule. b.) A player who qualifies on two or more teams within a division at the same NTRP level competition at the same championship will be eligible only for one team and that choice must be reported in writing to the championship director by the deadline set by each District Championship Committee and by 12:00 (noon) local time on the Monday preceding the State and Section Championship. A player representing two local leagues in the same District who fails to declare will automatically be assigned to the first team on which the player registered. A player representing two different Districts, who fails to declare, will automatically be assigned to the player s home District. A player must remain with his or her chosen team for all championship play up to and including the National Championships, or their equivalent. After elimination of the chosen team, a player may not advance with another team at the same NTRP level. 5.04G(2)g An individual may play in one doubles match within each team match. 6.0 LEAGUE REGULATIONS 6.01A Levels of Play The championship levels of play are the combined NTRP levels of 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8.5 and 9.5. Each individual Combo Doubles team s combined NTRP ratings may not exceed the level entered. 6.01B Men and Women Men s and Women s leagues shall be separate at each approved level of competition. The local league shall determine which approved levels shall be available for men and women in local league competition. 13

6.01C(3) Match Scoring It is recommended that all matches be the best of two sets, with regular scoring and a set tie-break at six-all in each set. A two minute set break with no coaching is allowed after each set. In the event of split sets, a set or match tie-break shall be played in lieu of a third set. The tie-break shall be scored as one set and one game for tie-break procedures. Other USTA-approved scoring methods may be used for play at Area/District Championships. Other match formats include: best of three sets with a set tie-break at six-all, a pro-set match, a single set with a set or match tie-break at six-all, or any other USTA-approved scoring methods that are compatible with the USTA NTRP Computer Rating system. No-ad scoring may be used with any of the above scoring methods 6.01C Competition Format 6.01C(1) Round Robin Each NTRP level within a local league shall play at least one round robin competition wherein every team plays every other team. Any NTRP level may be divided into flights and each team shall play every other team in its flight. The flight winners may enter a playoff structure to establish a local league champion for that NTRP level. Any NTRP level with only two or three teams are required to play a minimum of three matches. 6.01C(2) Team Match and Scoring Each team match shall consist of three individual doubles team matches. The method of awarding points in order to determine the winning team of a local league team match and the winner of the local league competition may be a method selected by the local league. 6.01C(4) Individual Match An individual match is any Combo Doubles match played as part of a team match. 6.01C(5) Team Lineups The team captains for each team shall exchange their team match lineups simultaneously prior to the beginning of the team match. No substitution may be made in an individual match after the lineup has been presented, except for injury 14

to or illness of a player prior to the start of such match, and except under such further circumstances as the local league authorizes. If the substitution is made during the warm-up, the substitute player is entitled to a five (5) minute warm-up. The forfeit principles in 7.03L shall be applicable, with such modifications as a sectional association may authorize. 6.01D Coaching Coaching will be permitted during the rest period only if the scoring method is the best of three sets. 6.02 Progression 6.02A(1) Local League Competition Each team that wins a specific level of local league competition shall be entitled to advance to the next level of competition. 6.02A(2) Local League Champions At the conclusion of local league competition, the local league coordinator shall certify to the Section league coordinator the results of the local league competition and the name(s) and address(es) of the team captain(s). Local league competition must be concluded prior to the deadline set by the Section Association. 6.02B Local league champions may progress through an Area/District Championship. Area/District Champions may progress through a State Championship. A State Championship will be held for each of the Combo Doubles NTRP levels if more than one Area/District champion has been determined in that state. 6.02C Section Championships Each Section association shall hold a Section League Championship in each Section approved level for Combo Doubles on or before the date specified by the USTA League Committee, to determine its Section champion. 15

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Your USTA membership turns competitors into COMMUNITIES Our games are very different, but our passion is the same. The USTA/Midwest Section has brought all different types of tennis to our community. To help us grow the game here, they even helped set up a Community Tennis Association. Thanks to the USTA/Midwest Section, tennis in our community has never been stronger. Join the USTA. Share your passion. Play it Forward And Get this 2012 US Open Hat PLAY IT FORWARD. Extend Your Membership Today: Visit USTA.com/JoinToday or Call 1-800-990-USTA Use Source Code MW2012 *While supplies last. ARV: $22. Allow 8-12 weeks for delivery. Offer nontransferable. The USTA reserves the right to substitute. Offer expires 12/31/12.

6.03 Area and State Championships 6.03A Eligibility 6.03A(1) The Area or Section has the authority to determine the progression of teams to its Championship competition by (1) determining a champion of the preceding level of competition by NTRP category, or (2) the use of the Championship Wildcard Procedures. Champions of the preceding level of competition must be included in the progression. 6.03A(2) Participation An individual player may play in only one doubles match within each team match. 6.03A(3) A player is eligible to advance to championship competition if that player has played on that same team in at least two (2) matches through the local league season. A maximum of one defaulted match received shall count for advancing. A retired match shall count for all players involved. 6.03A(5) A minimum of six team members whose combined ratings form three eligible teams and who were on the final roster of their local league team at the conclusion of local league play must be available and eligible to compete at Area Championships and above. 6.03B Official League Championship Entry An official copy of the final USTA Combo Doubles Team TennisLink Roster shall be submitted by the team captain, or coordinator to the Championship Committee at the first level of league championships prior to the deadline announced for entry into the event. 6.03C Scoring and Rest All matches will be the best of two sets and the set tiebreak (using the Coman Tiebreak Procedure) shall be used at six-all in each set. A two-minute set break with no coaching is allowed after each set. In the event of split sets, a match tiebreak (using the Coman Tie-Break Procedure) shall be 18

played in lieu of a third set. The tie-break shall be scored as one set and one game for tie-break procedures. For play at or below the Section level, the Sectional Association may authorize the use of other USTA approved scoring methods and other scoring methods that are compatible with the USTA NTRP Computer Rating System. At the Section or Regional/National Championship level, if an emergency or other condition dictates, the tournament referee may authorize the use of other USTA-approved scoring methods in order to complete play on schedule. 6.03D Competition Format The Championship Committee shall determine the format for the competition. 6.03D(1) Round Robin If round robin competition is used, each team shall play every other team in its flight, and the team with the most team points shall be champion of its flight. The use of flights requires a playoff structure to establish a champion. 6.03D(2) Single Elimination If single elimination competition is used, each team shall be drawn in tournament format in accordance with USTA Tournament Regulations. 6.03E Team Match and Scoring A team match format shall be three individual doubles matches. The team winning the majority of those three individual matches shall be awarded one team point. 6.03F Substitutions No substitutions may be made in an individual match after the lineup has been presented, except for injury to, illness of, or disqualification of a player, prior to the start of such match, and except under such further circumstances as the Championship Committee may authorize. If the substitution is made during the warm-up, the substitute player is entitled to a five (5) minute warm-up. 6.03Ga Coaching No coaching is allowed during a match throughout championship play. 19

6.03H Procedures in the Event of a Tie In the event of a tie, whether in a round robin or single elimination competition, the tie shall be broken by the first of the following procedures: 6.03H(1) Individual Matches Winner of the most individual matches in the entire competition. 6.03H(2) Sets Loser of the fewest number of sets. 6.03H(3) Games Loser of the fewest number of games. 6.03H(4) Head-to-Head Winner of head-to-head match. 6.03H(5) A method to be determined by the Championship Committee; such procedures shall be announced prior to commencement of championship competition. 6.03I Individual Forfeits (Defaults) An individual forfeit (default) occurs when a player fails to appear at the time of the scheduled match, or is defaulted by a tournament official for misconduct. 6.03J Scoring of Individual Forfeits (Defaults) The forfeits described in 5.03I will be scored as a 6-0, 6-0 win for the doubles team receiving the forfeit and a 6-0, 6-0 loss for the doubles team that forfeited the match. In the event of a forfeit by both opposing teams, both sides will be given a 6-0, 6-0 loss and neither receives credit for a win. If a double default results in a tie, the tiebreak procedures shall be the same as in 3.03I in order to determine a winner of that team match. 6.03K Team Defaults A team must have a minimum of four eligible players available for play in each match or the entire match must be forfeited. A team may forfeit one position in a match without 20

forfeiting the entire match. The forfeited position shall be No. 3 Doubles. 6.03L Scoring of Team Defaults a.) If a team forfeits an entire team match for any reason during round robin play, then all matches played or to be played, shall be null and void. If all teams in contention for the championships have already played the forfeiting team in good faith, the matches stand as played. 6.03M Retirement A retirement occurs when an individual match has started and a doubles team is unable to continue due to injury, loss of condition, or emergency. 6.03N Scoring of Retirements In case of a retirement, the non-retiring doubles team shall be credited with such number of additional games as would have been won if the match was completed and the nonretiring doubles team won every subsequent game. For NTRP computer data entry, actual scores are required. 6.06B Move Up Split Up The USTA/Midwest Section does not require teams that compete at Section Championships to disperse the following league year. 21

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT FOR USTA/MIDWEST SECTION SENIOR MIXED DOUBLES LEAGUE Articles of Agreement for USTA/Midwest Section Senior Mixed Doubles League: All USTA League Tennis and USTA/ Midwest Section USTA League Standing Orders in 1.00 General, 2.0 USTA League Regulations, 3.00 Grievance Procedures, and the Senior Mixed Doubles Standing order regulations, with the following exception shall apply to the Senior Mixed Doubles. Section 1 Age All players must have reached the age of fifty prior to or during the calendar year in which such player plays in his/ her first local league match. For early-start leagues, a player may register, but not participate in a match until January 1 of the year in which the player reaches the minimum eligible age. Section 2 NTRP Levels a.) Competition will be offered at the 5.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, and 9.0 combined NTRP levels for men and women. An individual doubles pair may combine forming any NTRP level as long as the combination does not exceed the level being played. b.) A player without a computer rating must self-rate to enter the program. A player who has a current NTRP computer rating must use his or her current NTRP rating on the day of registration to enter the program (see Valid Computer Rating Chart in USTA League Regulations.) c.) The level shall be determined by adding the most recently published year-end computer generated NTRP level of play (not rating) of each participant. In the case of early-start leagues, a player must use their early-start rating to determine their level. The total calculation must not exceed the category in which the team is participating. Any player disqualified from the adult or senior divisions may not play at that NTRP level of play in the USTA League 22

Senior Mixed Doubles Division (and any lower level of play) for the remainder of the league year and for up to three years (two years for age 60 and over) unless a new NTRP computer rating is generated. A disqualified player becomes a benchmark. In combined leagues, the disqualified player must play with a partner who does not surpass the level entered. In some circumstances, there may be players on a team who cannot combine but may still be eligible for the category. If a player has no current computer-generated rating, then a self-rating shall be used. d.) The NTRP differnce between members of an individual doubles team may not exceed 1.0. Section 3 Team Size The USTA/Midwest Section Senior Mixed Doubles League shall consist of a minimum of six players on each team. The maximum number of players allowed on a team is eighteen. Section 4 Team Match Format Each team match for championship play shall consist of three doubles matches and the team winning the majority of those three doubles matches shall be awarded one team point. All matches at the Senior Mixed Section Championships shall be the best of two sets, with regular scoring and a set tie-break (using the Coman Tie-Break Procedure) at six-all in each set. In the event of split sets, a match tie-break (using the Coman Tie-break Procedure) shall be played in lieu of a third set with no rest period or coaching allowed. (The tie-break shall be scored as one set and one game for tie-break procedures). At the State or Section Championship level, if an emergency or other condition dictates, the tournament referee may authorize the use of other USTA approved scoring methods in order to complete play on schedule. Section 5 Section Championships Local league champions of each NTRP level of Senior Mixed Doubles may progress through an Area/District Championship. Area/District champions may progress through a State Championship. A State Championship will 23

be held for each of the Senior Mixed Doubles NTRP levels if more than one Area/District champion has been determined in that state. Section 6 General a.) USTA/Midwest Section Senior Mixed Doubles participants may also compete in other USTA League programs at the same time if they wish. b.) All player registration must be completed by December 15. c.) During the local league season, no more than two regularly scheduled matches may be played in a seven-day period. d.) Winning teams may progress through State Championships. Section 7 USTA League Section Grievance Committee The USTA/Midwest Section will have a USTA League Grievance Committee composed of three members from the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League committee which are appointed by the Section USTA League Committee Chair. If the grievance is due to NTRP Grievance (3.02B), then the committee shall be composed of the USTA League Committee Chair from the District where the grievance originated and two other members of the Section League Committee appointed by the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Chair. A District League Coordinator may not serve as the chair of the District USTA League Committee. Section 8 Eligibility a.) Staff at Section and State Championships, including, but not limited to site directors, staff, referees and umpires may not play in championships in which they are serving in an official capacity. b.) The USTA/Midwest Section does not require teams that compete at Section Championships to move up a level or disperse the following league year. c.) A player is eligible to advance to championship competition if that player has played on that same team in 24

at least two (2) matches through the local league season. A maximum of one defaulted match received shall count for advancing. A retired match shall count for all players involved. Section 9 Competition Format Players who qualify to advance to championships on more than one team may be required by their Section to choose which team they will represent. a.) A player, who qualifies for championship level competition within a division on two or more different NTRP levels, may play on any or all of these teams but there will be no accommodation in the championship schedule. b.) A player who qualifies on two or more teams within a division at the same NTRP level competition at the same championship will be eligible only for one team and that choice must be reported in writing to the championship director by the deadline set by each District Championship Committee and by 12:00 (noon) local time on the Monday preceding the State and Section Championship. A player representing two local leagues in the same District who fails to declare will automatically be assigned to the first team on which the player registered. A player representing two different Districts, who fails to declare, will automatically be assigned to the player s home District. A player must remain with his or her chosen team for all championship play up to and including the National Championships, or their equivalent. After elimination of the chosen team, a player may not advance with another team at the same NTRP level. 25

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT FOR USTA/MIDWEST SECTION TRI-LEVEL DIVISION All rules below apply only to the Tri-Level Division. The Tri- Level Division is a unique league program for USTA/Midwest Section. Section 1 General All players must have reached the age of eighteen prior or during the calendar year in which such player plays in his/ her first local league match. Section 2 Local League Season a.) District local league season and all playoffs must be completed 10 days before the Section playoff event b.) All players and teams must be registered on TennisLink by October 15. c.) All match scores must be registered/entered on TennisLink by October 31. Section 3 Team a.) The Tri-Level team is a minimum of one doubles combination of each of the following levels: 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5, however a team of 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0. can compete as long as they are prepared to play at the 3.5, 4.0, 4.5 championship required format. b.) Level must play at team level, e.g., 3.5 team plays 3.5; 4.0 team plays 4.0; 4.5 team plays 4.5. Players may play up but not down. c.) If a team defaults, the same level on the other team will not play: e.g. If a 4.0 player or team defaults on one team then only the 4.5 and 3.5 will play. The 3.5 team does not move up. 26

Section 4 Progression a.) Districts may send one or both genders to the Midwest playoff to qualify. b.) The team must have played three times at the local level and an individual must have played on the team two times including one (1) default. c.) In order to qualify for progression to the Section playoff, a local league must play in a round robin format. If there are only two teams they must play three team matches. d.) Midwest playoff date and site to be determined, but will take place in November. e.) Winners of the Midwest playoff event will be one men s team and one women s team. Winners can be from different Districts to qualify for the National event currently being held in conjunction with the professional tournament being held at Indian Wells. f.) If a National Invitational event is not scheduled for the championship year, then there will not be a Midwest Section playoff unless there are more than 60% of the Districts participating. g.) If the qualified team cannot progress to a Midwest or National event, it will be replaced by the next qualified team. 27

ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT FOR District ROTATION OF USTA/MIDWEST SECTION USTA LEAGUE STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS Section 1 Purpose A sub-section Championship, known as the State Championships must be held if there are two or more District champions at any level. District Championship teams cannot progress directly to the USTA/Midwest League Section Championship unless there are no other District champions to compete against at the State Championship. USTA/Midwest Section Districts have the responsibility to host these State Championships on a rotating basis. Wisconsin, being the only District exempt from Section 2A. Rotation Order. In each state where there is more than one District, the USTA/Midwest Section shall establish a rotation schedule and guidelines for hosting the State Championship playoffs. Section 2 Rotation Order a.) Each District within the same state will host the Adult/ Senior, Mixed Doubles/Super Senior and Combo Doubles/ Senior Mixed Doubles State Championships in rotation. The Districts should follow this suggested rotation order if applicable: 1.) Illinois: Chicago, Middle Illinois, Northern Illinois and Southern Illinois 2.) Indiana: Central Indiana and Northern Indiana 3.) Michigan: Northeast Michigan, Northern Michigan, Southeastern Michigan and Western Michigan 4.) Ohio: Northeastern Ohio, Northwestern Ohio and Ohio Valley 5.) Wisconsin: does not apply Section 3 Requirements The designated District hosting the State Championship must submit the name and site to the USTA/Midwest Section office by February 1, of the year of the event and must adhere to the following requirements: 28

a.) Submit a proposal in writing to the USTA/Midwest Section office by June 1, of the year of the event outlining the finances, team entry fees, hotel rates, room availability, court location and any other amenities. b.) State Championships must be concluded by Sunday evening of the weekend scheduled, therefore back up indoor courts must be available for the event. c.) The District USTA League Coordinator in conjunction with the USTA League Section Coordinator is responsible for the planning of the State Championships. All District USTA League Coordinators are expected to attend and help at the event in various capacities. d.) The District USTA League Coordinator or a qualified designee shall act as League Championship Director and form a Championship Committee including a USTA Certified Official. (See IV. A. National USTA League Regulations). It is highly recommended that a member of that committee has experience in tournament management. e.) The USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Committee reserves the right to deny the championship to a District if USTA/Midwest Section guidelines are not met. Section 4 Change in Rotation If a District cannot host a State Championship due to the minimum number of courts required for the championship, that District must inform the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Coordinator in writing as follows: a.) If the District does not intend to host the State Championship, it must notify the USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Coordinator by January 31. b.) The District next in rotation will then be invited to host the State Championship. This new District should submit an answer with the name of a site by February 14, of the championship year or within 30 days upon receipt of notice from USTA/Midwest Section. 29

c.) If the District does not participate in a USTA/Midwest Section USTA League Division that requires a State Championship, then the next participating District in the state rotation will host that specific league division. YOU CALL THE SHOTS Now there s a tennis league to give you even more opportunities to play USTA Flex Leagues makes it easy to schedule your matches on your terms and meet new people, possibly new teammates Beginner or advanced players, we have the right competition for you Take control of your game www.ustaflex.com GREAT TENNIS. ON YOUR TERMS. See for yourself how much money you could save with Liberty Mutual compared to your current auto, home and renters insurance provider. For a free, no-obligation quote, call 1-800-524-9400 or visit www.libertymutual.com/ustamidwest 30

USTA/Midwest Section District League Coordinators District Chicago Middle Illinois Northern Illinois Southern Illinois Central Indiana Northern Indiana Northeastern Michigan Northern Michigan Southeastern Michigan Western Michigan Northeastern Ohio Northwestern Ohio Ohio Valley Wisconsin League Coordinator Nancy Williford Joann Blair Viki Congleton Sherry Metzger Kimberly Hartzel Jan Orban Nancy Berger Kelly Diss Deb Thallman Cathy Ficks Dale Hartwig Amy Beaverson Joyce Engle Charlie Kordus Contact Information ustachicago@comcast.net joannblair08@comcast.net viki@northernillinoistennis.com sitennisace@yahoo.com kimberly@centralindianatennis.com jan.orban@comcast.net nancy@bergerweb.net nmtadiss@gmail.com deb@semich-usta.com wmi.dlc@comcast.net djhneoatl@gmail.com nwotaleagues@att.net ovta@woh.rr.com ckordus@wisconsin.usta.com Getting Everything Out of Your USTA Membership? Exclusive USTA/Midwest Section Member Benefits Available at www.midwest.usta.com under the Membership Tab

USTA League Captains Easy Money Recruiting Contest How to Win*: For every 2 new league players** you recruit to play USTA League Tennis during the 2012 Championship year, your name will be entered into a drawing to win one of three cash prizes. Cash Prizes: -$500 -$250 -$100 How to Enter: Visit www.midwest.usta.com/easymoney and provide: -USTA League player s name -USTA Membership Number -Your name -Your team number For every two additional new players you sign up, you get more chances to win! Deadline: All entries must be received by August 1, 2012. Contact for More Information: Peg Hanna, USTA League Coordinator peg@midwest.usta.com Steve Wise, USTA League Coordinator steve@midwest.usta.com *Offer only valid to League Captains participating in USTA League program within the boundaries of the USTA/Midwest Section. All new player submissions must also be participatants in USTA League program within the boundaries of the USTA/Midwest Section. **New Members of the USTA or not a USTA member since 12/31/2010